Merepärl

Merepärl is the Estonian word for a pearl found in the sea. While pearls are most commonly associated with oysters, they can also be formed by other marine mollusks. The formation process begins when an irritant, such as a parasite or a piece of debris, enters the mollusk's shell. In response to this foreign object, the mollusk secretes layers of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, around the irritant. Over time, these layers build up, creating a smooth, lustrous sphere.

The color of a merepärl can vary widely depending on the species of mollusk, its diet, and the water conditions. Common colors include white, cream, pink, and black, with some rarer shades also existing. The luster, or sheen, of a pearl is a key factor in its value, and is caused by the way light reflects and refracts off the many thin layers of nacre. The size and shape of a merepärl also influence its desirability; perfectly spherical pearls are generally the most prized.

Historically, pearls have been highly valued for their beauty and rarity, often adorning jewelry worn by royalty and the wealthy. While natural pearls are still highly sought after, the development of pearl cultivation techniques has made them more accessible. These farmed pearls are formed through a similar process to natural pearls but involve the deliberate introduction of an irritant by humans.